At the tender age of 14, Finn Wolfhard's star shone brightly as he captivated audiences in "Stranger Things." Now, at 22, Wolfhard's accomplishments surpass the endeavors of many in a lifetime. He has starred in two "Ghostbusters" films, been part of two bands, and, as of this Friday, his co-written and co-directed feature film, "Hell of a Summer," will finally hit theaters after nearly two years in the making. Besides helming the film, Wolfhard also stars in "Hell of a Summer," a movie steeped in 80s slasher-movie horror tropes, infused with an extraordinary blend of humor and self-parody.
Ahead of the film's release, Men's Journal caught up with Wolfhard to delve into his burgeoning career, teasers for "Stranger Things" Season 5, and his embrace of roles that often find him clutching a trembling flashlight amidst the dense woods.
Men's Journal: You embarked on "Hell of a Summer" in 2019. How autobiographical is it?
Wolfhard: The autobiographical aspect stems from being teenagers at the time of writing it, alongside co-writer Billy Bryk. Essentially, it's a movie about teenagers, written by teenagers, and made by teenagers. [Chuckles.] You're no longer a teenager. Do you feel detached from such a project now?
Wolfhard: Perhaps because once a movie is made, it transcends personal ownership. It evolves. I undeniably feel distant from my former sentiments during the film's inception, yet it remains deeply rooted in my life's experiences.
Do you feel typecast in the roles you've secured since "Stranger Things"?
Wolfhard: I'm somewhat perplexed by my career trajectory and decisions. Things just happened organically. I grew up consuming media that inspired "Stranger Things," much of which was rooted in "Ghostbusters" and 80s horror-fantasy movies featuring kids on bikes. Being part of a project that encapsulated all these elements, I wanted to immerse myself in learning how to create such content.
Now recognized for this genre, I generally seek out varied roles. However, for "Hell of a Summer," it was fitting to make certain choices—honoring classic slashers and featuring a Carpenter-inspired synth score. It felt like the perfect opportunity to showcase that this is the type of movie I've been preparing to make my entire childhood.
So, you won't always be wandering the woods with a flashlight?
[Laughs] Well, not always. But I'm sure there'll be a moment in the 40th anniversary of "Stranger Things" where we're back in the woods somewhere.
What distinguishes "Stranger Things" Season 5 from the previous seasons?
Wolfhard: Knowing it's the final season, there's a pervasive sense of melancholy. It's a blend of happy-sad moments, emblematic of real life for those who worked on the show. It's bittersweet, and this tone permeates the storyline.
You joked about the 40th anniversary of "Stranger Things" in the future. But how does it feel knowing this will be a defining aspect of your life forever? Is it surreal?
Certainly, when the show premiered, it resonated deeply with many, including myself—not just as an actor but as a passionate viewer. I vividly recall its impact. Thus, I have no reservations about being recognized for my role in the show.
It's gratifying when people appreciate your work in indie films. Yet, ultimately, I wouldn't have been in those films without "Stranger Things." It's a unique and cherished experience. I've accepted it wholeheartedly.
"Hell of a Summer" premieres in theaters on April 4, while "Stranger Things" Season 5 will hit Netflix later this year.
